Weight Distribution System Recommendation for a Trailer with 480 lbs of Tongue Weight
Question:
I have a victory 16 foot enclosed trailer total empty weight 2200 lbs. Upon loading 3 motorcycles the lightest one was loaded in the front of trailer and other two loaded in rear of trailer. The total weight of trailer and bikes was 4,530 lbs. We hooked up the trailer to RV and the maximum vehicle GCWR is 19,500, when we had it weighed including two passengers 200 lbs each at certified automated truck scale the gross weight was 18,240 lbs. The steer axle weight was 4640 lbs, drive axle 9060 lbs and with trailer axle disconnected 4540 lbs. Upon attaching hitch to RV the steer axle is 4440 lbs, drive axle 9540 lbs, and trailer axle 4260 lbs. The total again 18,240 lbs. I would like to be at least 10-15 under weight limit, but my biggest concern is my tongue weight. I think I am close to maximum tongue weight???? I think my tongue weight is 480 lbs. What can I do to lighten up my tongue weight???
asked by: Roger M
Expert Reply:
Actually you do not want to lighten up your tongue weight too much. If the tongue weight of the trailer isn't between 10 and 15 percent of the total weight of the trailer you will end up with trailer sway.
Since you said your trailer weighs 4,530 lbs when loaded the lowest you would want your tongue weight to be is 450 lbs. If it's currently 480 lbs and you are under the tongue weight limit for the tow vehicle you are in the sweet spot.
For a weight distribution system that would work well with that tongue weight figure you would want the part # PS49901.
The best way to pick out a weight distribution system is to base it off of the loaded tongue weight of the setup when it is loaded and ready to tow. This figure also includes the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. I attached a help article on determining tongue weight for you to check out as well. You will want the loaded tongue weight of your setup to fall right in the middle of the tongue weight range of the system you use.
